Requesting an Informational Interview (Letter Format)

As an alumna of Santa Clara University, I suspect you understand the difficulties today’s graduates face in making the transition from college student to young professional. I recently graduated from the College of Arts & Sciences, and through some career exploration I have confirmed that work in the non-profit industry is consistent with my interests and abilities.

I am certain that your position as Communication Director with the American Lung Association has provided you with excellent insight into the non-profit field. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to meet briefly with me to share any suggestions that you may have about careers in the non-profit field.

My resume is enclosed so that you can review my background. I appreciate your consideration of my request and I look forward to hearing from you.

Requesting an Informational Interview (E-mail Format)

Dear Mr. Haven:

I am currently a student at Santa Clara University exploring various career options. After attending a campus American Marketing Association meeting, I became intrigued by the field. According to InCircle, the alumni database, I understand that you are an alumnus of SCU and currently working in the field of marketing.

I would appreciate the opportunity to learn from your first-hand experience and gain some insight into marketing. I wonder if you would be willing to spend 20 - 30 minutes with me so that I may continue to gather data and assess whether or not this field is for me. I realize that you’re very busy, and would like to make this as convenient as possible for you. Please let me know if you might have time to speak with me and share your experience.

I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

Thank You Letter (Letter Format)

Thank you for meeting with me on Monday. I gained much insight into the position of Communication Director for a non-profit agency. I was impressed by your agency’s high level of professionalism and efficiency.

Our conversation helped convince me that I possess the skills necessary to excel in this type of position. I believe I can translate the skills I have gained through my volunteer and sorority experience successfully into a career as a Communications professional. I am excited about entering into a field that offers such challenge and diversity.

While I realize your agency isn’t currently hiring, I would appreciate it if you kept me in mind if an opportunity happens to arise, or if you learn about another appropriate position. I’ve enclosed an updated resume for you to keep and share with interested colleagues.

Thank you again for your advice. I greatly appreciate all of your assistance and hope that I can someday reciprocate. I’ll keep in touch as my career plans develop.

Thank You Letter (E-mail Format)

Dear Mr. Haven:

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me on Friday. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet you and learn what it’s like to work in marketing. The time that you spent with me and the information you provided is invaluable in my exploration of career options. I have already set up a meeting with Andy Cook, as you suggested, to explore an internship possibility.

Again, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule and I will keep you posted as I continue to explore the field.